Saturday, 23 April 2011

I'd forgotten how truly fascinating the small booklet entitled Clandeboye actually is. I pulled it out of the bookcase late last night for a perusal and, although it could be read well within an hour, it is a little gem of a publication.

Published by the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society (UAHS) in 1985, it provides a much greater insight of the Blackwood family - Barons Clandeboye, Viscounts Clandeboye, Earls of Dufferin, Earls of Ava; and, ultimately, Marquesses of Dufferin and Ava till the marquessate became extinct following the death of Sheridan, 5th and last Marquess, in 1988.

Sheridan Dufferin writes personally about his upbringing at Clandeboye House; of the innumerable nannies - one or two kinder than the others; his early education at Garth House, a day school in Bangor, County Down; his sisters being sent to Rockport Boys' School; and his sister Lady Perdita's prowess in all matters equestrian.

The present Marchioness of Dufferin and Ava - Lindy Guinness - intimates what an enchanting place Clandeboye really is, more so given the influence of the 1st Marquess, erstwhile Governor-General of Canada, Viceroy of India and various other ambassadorial roles.

We see an old photograph of a family group at the 5th Marquess's Christening - or little Sheridan, Earl of Ava, as he was in 1938: Lord Kilmorey, Lady Broughshaw, Somey Somerset, Lady Novar ... Maureen Lady Dufferin, Lady Caroline, Lady Perdita, and the 4th Marquess.

There is also a chapter about Helen's Tower, which nestles in the grounds of the beautiful Clandeboye estate.

Founded in 2007 by Timothy William Ferres: Touching upon a wide variety of topics including the Monarchy, the Nobility, the Gentry, Heraldry, Pageantry, Heritage, Country Houses, the National Trust, Conservation, Brackenber House School, Food, Drink, Entertainment, Travel.